NDP Mental Health and Addictions Critic Gerry Rogers (MHA, St. John’s Centre) is raising concerns about government’s new proposed legislation on prescription monitoring, specifically the lack of consultation on the final bill and the less than 24 hours provided to members of the House of Assembly for review.
The proposed legislation, intended to curb inappropriate prescribing of opioids, would see physicians having to review a person’s complete medication history using HEALTHe NL, the province’s electronic health record, before prescribing an opioid.
Rogers is concerned about the fact that this legislation could give authorities greater disclosure and inspection powers than in other provinces, an issue which should not be taken lightly or dealt with hastily.
Rogers says the opioid addictions issue is a huge problem affecting many people and families in our province.
“Government should be consulting and collaborating to ensure the best possible legislation is created to deal with this growing problem,” said Rogers.
Today in Question Period, Rogers raised the issue. “I ask the Minister, will he table a list of organizations that were consulted on the actual proposed Prescription Monitoring Act?” Rogers asked.
Rogers says Bill 25 has serious implications for privacy rights, healthcare providers, and patients. The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association has also issued a news release with their concerns.